Fast Track vs Sidekit

Is buying a different trailer with the fast track and pull up chains already installed an option?

 

A side kit is much lighter than a Fastrak system.
With a side kit your freight must be less than 8 ft wide and 6 ft tall with a standard kit.
If you have to side unload with a forklift it's not bad to just take the driver's side off but if you have to unload from both sides it's a pain with a side kit. The Fastrak would be much more versatile for back hauls if you got out of the primary steel producing areas but if you are staying in those areas and your plates are less than 8 ft wide the side kit will work just fine.
When you say that you need to have "steel plates for chains put in the floor" it sounds like you don't have an aluminum trailer.
I bought my side kit when I had an aluminum trailer and hauled steel for years but now it sits in storage because my current combination trailer is too heavy with the side kit on for a lot of the steel loads.
Mind you I have an aluminum headboard, aluminum under belly carrier and extra aluminum posts for hauling bulk produce and that all adds up.

 

You are very light and will be fine with either system.
My side kit with lightweight panels and aluminum headboard probably weighs around 1000 lbs minus the under belly carrier.

 

What kind of steel are you hailing and how is it loaded?? That would help make the decision a little easier.

Id just go with the sidekit and save your extra $$$. If for some reason it doesn't work like you want or u decide to get another trailer, a sidekit usually sells fast around these parts.

Also, why do u need a headboard?? I've seen plenty of guys running w/o the headboard and just having HD panels up front. Just keep the headache rack for extra protection. It's no different than running an open flat.

 

There is a guy up here near Gary that has an almost new sidekit for sale. I will grab the flyer when I get home and pass u his info. It was a lightweight kit and pretty cheap.